Saudi Arabia to host 2024 IPL player auction in major cricket debut

Saudi Arabia will host the Indian Premier League's 2024 player auction, marking its first major involvement in cricket. This event reflects the kingdom's strategy to enhance its global sports presence and improve its international image. The two-day auction in Jeddah begins on Sunday, featuring 574 players, including top stars like Rishabh Pant and James Anderson. This is the first significant cricket event in Saudi Arabia, which has a large expatriate fanbase. The IPL has generated billions since its start in 2008, and this auction aims to expand its global reach. The event follows last year's auction in Dubai, continuing the trend of hosting in locations with significant cricket interest.